Monday, November 30, 2009

Film Corps...

How many emerging nation's mythologies and identities are wrapped up in the ideals and aesthetics of Hollywood? Too many.

I imagine a widespread and forward-looking international organization, The Film Corps, similar to the Peace Corps in its reach, but with a different agenda. The mission is simple and critical to open global dialog...

To allow nations to explore their own cultural identities, tell their own stories, document their troubles and to interpret the tools and technologies available in the media realms however they see fit.

The Film Corps would assist developing nations in establishing vital and economically viable centers for film, photography, and media making. Members of the Film Corps would serve their planet in the cause of peace and cultural communications by teaching and creating exhibition opportunities for film and photography in developing countries. Schools would teach the basic skills of media making while other branches would build venues and help mount exhibitions that would foster the growth of local cinema and photography. Teachers would encourage participants to forget American tropes and cliches and to find their own ways to relate stories through media.